The Yellowstone Universe could be preparing for the biggest shakeup of the series. If rumors prove true, Kevin Costner’s time with the hit Paramount series Yellowstone could be coming to an end.
According to Deadline, Costner could potentially exit the series on which he has played John Dutton since it launched in 2018. The issue seems to be Costner’s shooting schedule, with Costner being available for fewer days as the show has progressed. While plans are underway for a new expansion of the Yellowstone franchise that would feature several characters from the mothership show with Matthew McConaughey in talks to star.
Paramount has not confirmed either Costner’s potential exit or a new project with Matthew McConaughey, who is reportedly in talks to be the next major Dutton saga lead star. It’s not clear which of the current “Yellowstone” cast would join him in a potential new series.
A Paramount Network spokesperson said in a statement:
“We have no news to report. Kevin Costner is a big part of Yellowstone and we hope that’s the case for a long time to come. Thanks to the brilliant mind of Taylor Sheridan, we are always working on franchise expansions of this incredible world he has built. Matthew McConaughey is a phenomenal talent with whom we’d love to partner.”
Yellowstone is currently in the midst of its fifth season. The series began airing the first half of the season, which consisted of eight episodes, back in November. A second half of another eight episodes is due to launch later this year.
“Yellowstone” has proven to be one of the most popular shows on television during its run, with the show drawing massive ratings for Paramount Network each season, resulting in the show’s universe expand with prequels “1883” and “1923.” Sheridan has also been at work on a new spinoff centered on the historic 6666 ranch in Texas.
Sheridan is also the creator of “Mayor of Kingstown” starring Jeremy Renner and “Tulsa King” starring Sylvester Stallone. He also has the upcoming shows “Bass Reeves” starring David Oyelowo, “Lioness” starring Zoe Saldaña and Nicole Kidman, and “Land Man” starring Billy Bob Thornton.
